What instruction should the nurse give regarding the proper administration of eye drops?

The instruction to administer eye drops without touching the eye is correct because it helps minimize the risk of contamination and injury to the eye. By avoiding contact with the eye, the nurse reduces the chance of introducing bacteria or other harmful substances that could lead to infections or other complications. Additionally, touching the eye with the dropper can cause damage to the delicate surface of the eye, such as the cornea.

This method also encourages the patient to feel more comfortable during the procedure, as many people may flinch or feel uneasy if they anticipate close contact with the dropper. Proper technique involves holding the dropper above the eye, which allows the drops to fall directly into the eye's conjunctival sac without any direct physical contact.

The other options involve misconceptions about eye drop administration. Shutting the eyes tightly can prevent the drops from being distributed evenly across the surface of the eye, and keeping the eye open for effective absorption is impractical, as some users may find it difficult to do so. Positioning the head backward during administration can also be ineffective, as it could lead to the drops sliding off rather than being absorbed properly.